The UK government announced on 2 September 2026 that a £10 million, three-year Hospitality Grant Scheme had opened for applications that day, with a closing date of 13 October 2026. The Department for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade said the funding was intended for projects starting new hospitality ventures, returning vacant premises to use, or supporting training programmes.

At least £3 million was earmarked for the independent non-profit Pub is The Hub, which helps pubs in rural and deprived areas diversify their services, including village stores, community cafés and play areas. Minister for the Future of Work Kate Dearden said the funding would back local businesses to grow.

The scheme follows a pilot that supported more than 70 rural pub projects, two hospitality training facilities in UK prisons and an innovation hub. The government also cited an announced 20% cut to business rates for pubs, clubs and live music venues from April, estimated to save a typical pub £1,000 next year.